Data logger science experiment

Suitable for
Ages 14 - 19
KS4KS5


Educational data acquisition


Results

The graph below shows the plot of the Voltage input against the temperature and light produced from the bulb.

a graph showing temperature, light and voltage plotted against time

Graph of Temperature, Light Intensity and Voltage against time




The graph below shows the amount of energy used by the bulb in producing heat.

a graph showing the overall energy efficiency

Graph of the energy efficiency of the light bulb




Teachers notes

Safety issues:
Care should be taken to avoid touching the bulb whilst it is hot.

Target age groups:
Ages 14 - 19 (Science Key Stage levels 4 and 5)

National curriculum:
Whilst to some extent this can relate to GCSE level, the calculations involved require some knowledge of Specific Heat Capacity and Heat Capacity so may well be better placed post-16. The activity involves the use of a 12W bulb placed inside a box and the voltage applied to the bulb, the temperature of the box and the light level all being measured. KS4 Sc4 Physical processes. Energy resources and energy transfer. Energy transfer. 5b about the efficient use of energy, the need for economical use of energy resources, and the environmental implications of generating energy.



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